Chinese NORINCO Unveils Compact Anti-drone, Electronic Warfare Systems for Tanks

China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (NORINCO) has introduced compact anti-drone and electronic warfare solutions designed for tanks and armored vehicles at Airshow China 2024, highlighting new approaches in ground defense against drones.

NORINCO’s anti-drone modules, mounted on its tanks and armored vehicles, aim to address threats posed by low-altitude, small, and slow-moving drones. The showcase, held from November 12 to 17 in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, underscores how recent conflicts have illustrated drones’ impact on ground forces.

The company has scheduled a product launch for midweek to present additional systems, including the latest assault vehicles, howitzers, and electronic warfare units. NORINCO’s exhibit includes 225 military systems, with 68 items displayed publicly for the first time. Key items featured at the event include the VT4A main battle tank, VT5U unmanned light tank, multiple launch rocket systems, and the Sky Dragon air defense missile system.

Cheng Ziheng, NORINCO spokesperson, noted that the dynamics of warfare have shifted, with traditional troop formations giving way to dispersed, multi-element combat environments that now involve electronic warfare and cybersecurity. NORINCO has developed a “digitally empowered combined arms brigade combat system,” designed with qualities of comprehensiveness, resilience, and agility. According to Cheng, this system aims to withstand modern combat uncertainties, including drone threats, by offering a layered defense structure.

The anti-drone modules on NORINCO’s VT4 tanks, complemented by mobile electronic warfare vehicles, provide an adaptable defense setup for ground units. Integrated with radars, drone detection devices and fire units, NORINCO’s systems target both small, slow-flying drones and medium-sized threats, aiming to offer multi-layered protection for tanks and other ground assets.